Saudi Arabian commercial space services provider Neo Space Group (NSG) has acquired Display Interactive (DI), an innovator in wireless in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC).

The acquisition should strengthen NSG’s position in the aviation market as a provider of integrated, multi-orbit products, underpinned by intelligent bandwidth management and global coverage. By combining satellite and digital technologies, NSG hopes to deliver faster, more reliable IFEC, enhancing passenger experiences while enabling airlines to optimise operations and unlock service opportunities.

NSG and French firm DI began collaborating on product development in 2023. Building on this foundation, the partnership was strengthened in May last year when DI introduced the Skywaves satellite connectivity system in cooperation with NSG. The acquisition will mark the next stage in this collaboration, accelerating the evolution of IFEC.

By integrating DI’s technology and products, NSG is delivering unified IFEC, combining intelligent traffic management through Skywaves with a seamless digital passenger experience via its SkyFly end-user portal. Supported by the SES Open Orbits network, NSG’s system intelligently routes traffic across multiple satellite providers, ensuring uninterrupted, high-speed connectivity for airlines and passengers worldwide.

This end-to-end approach simplifies IFEC deployment for airlines, providing a faster and more efficient path to connectivity. Additionally, NSG collaborates with aerospace partners to enable smooth integration across airline fleets, making IFEC more accessible.

“The IFEC sector is evolving rapidly, and remaining competitive requires a strong customer focus, continuous innovation, and adaptability,” said Martijn Blanken, CEO of NSG. “Acquiring DI strengthens our ability to deliver cutting-edge connectivity while ensuring passengers enjoy an unparalleled in-flight experience with seamless connectivity, high-speed internet, and real-time entertainment and communication.”

Tarek El Mitwalli, CEO of DI (display.aero), added: “Joining forces with Neo Space Group allows us to open a new chapter, scaling our technology and expanding our impact in global aviation. Together, we will push the boundaries of innovation and connectivity in the most agile way.”

As part of its commitment to advancing the ambitions of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, NSG (www.neospacegroup.com) continues to invest in satellite and digital technologies, while fostering the growth of the national space industry. This acquisition, which is subject to customary closing conditions, builds on NSG’s capabilities in satellite communications and IFEC, reinforcing its role as an enabler of secure, multi-orbit connectivity.